Just in case you’re not sure: The Alaskan Way Viaduct will be open tomorrow. Highway 99 north of there won’t.

With some simply describing the Highway 99 work as a “4-day closure,” here’s a reminder: For the part most used by West Seattleites, it’s not. The Alaskan Way ViaductWILL reopen by 5 am Monday, WSDOT says (as will 99 between the AWV and West Seattle Bridge). What will NOT be open (yet) is Highway 99 north of The Viaduct – from the Battery St. Tunnel north to Valley Street on Lower Queen Anne, as shown here:

That section is supposed to remain closed for bridge work until early Wednesday. Though The Viaduct will be open again, it’s still wise to avoid it if you can, since anyone still on 99 past Seneca will have to exit at Western, and that’s likely to back things up. South of there, state crews spent the weekend closure replacing concrete panels; WSDOT’s latest update says, “The final concrete has been poured on these new panels and will cure overnight. Drivers should experience a smoother ride in SODO during Monday morning’s commute.” We’ll be monitoring morning traffic here as usual, with live cameras in our daily update as well as on the WSB Traffic page.

Yes, there is more to it – from the Battery St. Tunnel to Valley Street. WSDOT has explained it copiously but has also used the “4-day closure” heading (as have some regional news sources) and we have received questions from people confused as a result. The WSDOT link above has all the maps, details, updates, etc.

I had no problems commuting this morning. I just took 99 and got off at Western Ave and took Elliott Ave to just past the Ballard bridge, then cut over to the UW where I work. There was hardly any traffic. Coming home was even better. When I got onto the viaduct, it was nearly empty. Sweet.

(Common loon in winter plumage, photographed by Mark Wangerin) Lots of good cheer - and some community involvement too - in our highlights for the rest of today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide and Event Calendar: COCOA CRIS CRINGLE: 4-8 pm photo sessions at Easy Street Records, rais...